Crackdown on drivers who use their mobile phones while behind the wheel

Victoria West

Those who use a mobile phone while driving will be the target of a month-long campaign starting tomorrow (July 1).

Throughout July, the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit will be out looking for motorists breaking the law.

Insp Mark Rogers said driving while using a phone was one of the ‘fatal four’ driving offences, along with speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and drink or drug driving.

“Those who use a mobile phone while driving put their own lives and the lives of others at risk,” he said.

“If you are using a phone while driving, your reaction times are 50 per cent slower and you are four times more likely to have a collision.

“Recent research has suggested it impairs your ability to drive safely as much as being over the alcohol limit.

“Even careful drivers can be distracted by a call or text – and a split-second lapse in concentration could result in a crash.

“Throughout July we will carry out targeted patrols to enforce the law. You can only use a handheld phone if you are safely parked or need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop.”

Motorists are advised to turn their mobile phone off or lock it in the glove box while driving to avoid being distracted or tempted to answer.

In 2014, more than 6,425 people were issued with tickets for driving while using a mobile phone across the three counties – 989 in Beds, 2,415 in Cambs and 3,021 in Herts.